Why Gen Z’s next promotion may depend less on AI and more on leadership skills
Artificial intelligence may be transforming the workplace, but employers say the qualities that determine who gets promoted are still deeply human
The findings suggest that AI may become a baseline expectation in the workplace, but leadership skills are likely to determine long-term career growth.
While AI, technology and data analysis skills have become more important than ever, communication, problem-solving and adaptability remain the most sought-after skills when hiring business school graduates, a new <a href="https://absafricatv.com/ibm-appoints-omnicom-media-as-global-media-agency-of-record/” title=”IBM appoints Omnicom Media as global media agency of record”>global survey by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) finds. The survey was based on responses from more than 600 corporate recruiters across 39 countries
The findings suggest that AI may become a baseline expectation in the workplace, but leadership skills are likely to determine long-term career growth
“Employers are increasingly seeking those who can combine analytical and technological capabilities with strong communication, active resilience, sound judgment, and the ability to lead people,” said Joy Jones, CEO of GMAC
AI MAY GET YOU HIRED, BUT LEADERSHIP COULD GET YOU PROMOTED
The survey found that technology, AI and data analysis recorded the biggest increase in importance compared to last year. Employers also expect proficiency in using AI tools and strategic thinking to become among the most valuable capabilities over the next five years
At the same time, recruiters say AI is best suited for automating routine tasks, making human-centric skills even more valuable. Nearly two-thirds of employers who expressed concerns about AI said they want graduates to use AI tools to improve productivity, while placing greater emphasis on communication, decision-making and people management
The findings indicate that as AI takes over repetitive work, employees who can lead teams, navigate change and make strategic decisions are likely to have an edge when promotion opportunities arise
EMPLOYERS SAY GEN Z MUST STRENGTHEN THESE WORKPLACE SKILLS
Despite growing confidence in graduate management education, the survey found several gaps between employer expectations and workforce readiness
Recruiters reported shortages in AI capabilities, emotional intelligence, grit and managing human capital – skills that are increasingly associated with leadership roles. The survey also found that fewer employers believe today’s graduates demonstrate the same level of professionalism as previous generations, pointing to concerns about workplace readiness beyond technical expertise
For Gen Z professionals and management aspirants, the message is clear: learning to use AI is becoming essential, but it is unlikely to be enough on its own. Employers are increasingly looking for candidates who can communicate effectively, solve problems, adapt to changing business environments and lead people – qualities that remain difficult for AI to replicate
With organisations integrating AI into everyday work, recruiters suggest that the professionals who combine technological fluency with strong leadership and interpersonal skills will be best positioned for career progression
– Ends
Published By:
Mridusmita Deka
Published On:
Jun 30, 2026 16:59 IST
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While AI, technology and data analysis skills have become more important than ever, communication, problem-solving and adaptability remain the most sought-after skills when hiring business school graduates, a new global survey by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) finds. The survey was based on responses from more than 600 corporate recruiters across 39 countries
The findings suggest that AI may become a baseline expectation in the workplace, but leadership skills are likely to determine long-term career growth
“Employers are increasingly seeking those who can combine analytical and technological capabilities with strong communication, active resilience, sound judgment, and the ability to lead people,” said Joy Jones, CEO of GMAC
AI MAY GET YOU HIRED, BUT LEADERSHIP COULD GET YOU PROMOTED
The survey found that technology, AI and data analysis recorded the biggest increase in importance compared to last year. Employers also expect proficiency in using AI tools and strategic thinking to become among the most valuable capabilities over the next five years
At the same time, recruiters say AI is best suited for automating routine tasks, making human-centric skills even more valuable. Nearly two-thirds of employers who expressed concerns about AI said they want graduates to use AI tools to improve productivity, while placing greater emphasis on communication, decision-making and people management
The findings indicate that as AI takes over repetitive work, employees who can lead teams, navigate change and make strategic decisions are likely to have an edge when promotion opportunities arise
EMPLOYERS SAY GEN Z MUST STRENGTHEN THESE WORKPLACE SKILLS
Despite growing confidence in graduate management education, the survey found several gaps between employer expectations and workforce readiness
Recruiters reported shortages in AI capabilities, emotional intelligence, grit and managing human capital – skills that are increasingly associated with leadership roles. The survey also found that fewer employers believe today’s graduates demonstrate the same level of professionalism as previous generations, pointing to concerns about workplace readiness beyond technical expertise
For Gen Z professionals and management aspirants, the message is clear: learning to use AI is becoming essential, but it is unlikely to be enough on its own. Employers are increasingly looking for candidates who can communicate effectively, solve problems, adapt to changing business environments and lead people – qualities that remain difficult for AI to replicate
With organisations integrating AI into everyday work, recruiters suggest that the professionals who combine technological fluency with strong leadership and interpersonal skills will be best positioned for career progression
– Ends
Published By:
Mridusmita Deka
Published On:
Jun 30, 2026 16:59 IST
Read |Thinking of quitting without notice? Here’s what HR does in absconding cases
Read |Career bucket list: My boss, super boss and Gen Z teammates dreamed differently
